Rasheed Rice will miss the first six games, forcing KC to lean on other pass targets while navigating a brutal early slate that features Chargers, Eagles, Ravens, and Lions.

Anthony Richardson’s development in Indianapolis, Daniel Jones' role shift, Micah Parsons' health updates, Lane Johnson's veteran leadership in Philadelphia, and Terry McLaurin's pay raise in Washington frame a week-one fantasy landscape defined by clarity around suspensions, growth curves, and leadership across multiple teams.

Chubb remains Cleveland’s anchor back, but age and usage questions color his ceiling this season. Mixon’s four‑game absence in Cincinnati adds early volatility to the Bengals backfield, boosting early touches for complement backs. In Houston, Stroud’s arrival and a thin O line keep Nico Collins and Dameon Pierce intriguing but risky bets. Indianapolis’ Anthony Richardson will grow into a longer arc, while Daniel Jones offers steadiness as the Giants’ starter and a potential midseason lift as his supporting cast solidifies.

Tier-two backs and receivers anchor a high-ceiling, high-floor segment: Derrick Henry holds steady production with a likely 12-touchdown floor, while Jamar Chase is the league’s keystone in CIN’s explosive offense. Chase Brown pairs Burrow with elite target potential, and Jonathan Taylor lurks as a health- and scheme-driven breakout candidate if Colts’ offense stabilizes.

Key strategy: pair elite pass-catchers with backs who command volume in scoring positions. The group’s upside hinges on offensive efficiency, QB competence, and healthy seasons, making late-round anchors and mid-round upside plays critical for fantasy rosters.